It’s one of those things in life that is hard to forget. It’s soft, warm, attached to a cute little nose, ears,face…aaahhhh. puppy belly.
And how does one make sure the puppy doesn’t mind showing you his or her belly. Why training of course!
Let’s be real that many pups don’t like to be flipped on to their back and then have people descend, hover, poke and pet. It’s a vulnerable position and one could argue physically uncomfortable.
But here is a picture of doing it the right way.
1 – lots of support under the dog’s body
2 – use some yummy treats to keep it actively positive
3 – keep it brief and enjoyable for the dog, we don’t want them squirming and fighting the whole way!
4 – talk sweetly to your pup
5 – place them on the floor and release gently
Share a pic of your puppy’s belly, it will make the world a happier place!
I aim to have my dog do his business in our yard, and I immediately bag it and throw it out. Sometimes on a walk, he will poop, and I will immediately clean it up–but we are on someone else’s property. I have not had anyone complain, but your post raises the question — how to take walks and avoid pooping on other people’s lawns? Thank you.
Allyson
Great question, Allyson. I’m sure by now you have some certainty about where your dog goes poop and what they prefer to poop on. Using some of that predictability to your advantage, you release or ask for “Go Potty” in the areas that you want your dog to eliminate instead of allowing them to freely roam for the entire duration of the walk.
For example, my dog Jack likes to pee or poop on things that are upright. I can pass 50 things in my neighborhood that are upright. I do not walk slowly and allow him to investigate all 50 and choose one or two. I pass all the ones that 1) are property such as someone’s car or lawn ornament 2)landscaping so he doesn’t take out someone’s shrub to get just the right spot 3) are inconvenient or unsafe such as along a fence where there is a dog going nuts.
Move along quickly to the spot you want him to eliminate and linger there, generally walking in a circle around that space. Should he hit the end of the leash to reach someone’s front lawn I walk in a circle and then return back to the space I want the dog to eliminate. If he needs some more walking time, then move along in your walk and select a spot up-ahead to allow him to eliminate. Encourage him to go by using his potty cue or casually begin to repeat “Go Potty” so your dog learns it’s time.
Thanks for the question!